Athlete’s foot is a skin infection caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist areas, such as shoes, locker rooms, and public shower areas. It often appears as peeling, itching, or cracked skin between the toes or on the soles of the feet. Some cases may cause redness, blisters, or a burning sensation. Because symptoms can resemble eczema or psoriasis, a proper diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can usually identify athlete’s foot by examining the affected area. In some cases, a small skin sample may be taken and examined under a microscope or sent to a lab to confirm the presence of fungus. Accurate diagnosis ensures the most effective treatment. If you notice persistent foot irritation or scaling, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and a treatment plan that clears the infection and prevents it from returning.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is a bony growth that develops at the base of the big toe when the joint becomes misaligned. Bunions are often the result of inherited foot structure problems, such as flat feet or joint looseness. Over time, the top of the toe leans inward, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Bunions can lead to complications, if ignored. Bursitis, which is inflammation of the joint's fluid-filled sac, may develop and cause additional pain and stiffness. Other complications include hammertoes, overlapping toes, metatarsal pain, and thickened skin or calluses. In certain cases, joint damage can limit motion in the big toe or result in permanent deformity. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the bunion and determine the most appropriate care. Treatment options include custom orthotics to relieve pressure or bunion surgery to realign the bones and remove inflamed tissue. If you have painful bunions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is one of the most common complaints seen in podiatry offices, and it can affect daily movement and quality of life. While plantar fasciitis is a frequent cause, heel pain can also result from bursitis, stress fractures, nerve entrapment, or inflammation of surrounding soft tissue. A step-by-step evaluation begins with identifying the exact location of the pain, when it occurs, and what activities make it worse. Imaging may be used to rule out less obvious causes. Treatment often begins with rest, supportive footwear, and stretching exercises, followed by custom orthotics or targeted exercise if needed. More persistent cases may require injection therapy or additional medical intervention. Addressing heel pain early can help avoid long-term issues. If your heel pain has not improved with basic at-home care or is interfering with your ability to walk, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Lisfranc injuries result if bones in the midfoot are broken or ligaments that support the midfoot are torn. The midfoot is key to foot stability and arch support. Injuries can result from trauma, such as a fall, car accident, or sports injury, even something as simple as twisting the foot awkwardly. Although rare, Lisfranc injuries are often mistaken for a simple sprain. Symptoms include swelling, bruising on the top and bottom of the foot, pain while standing or walking, and difficulty bearing weight. The foot may appear misaligned or feel unstable. Left untreated, a Lisfranc injury can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, and long-term disability. A podiatrist can diagnose a Lisfranc injury through a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays, MRI or CT scans. Treatment depends on severity and may include rest, immobilization with a cast or boot, targeted exercises, or surgical repair to realign and stabilize the bones. If you think you may have this condition,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common reasons for heel pain, especially in adults who spend a lot of time on their feet. It occurs when the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated or strained. Repeated stress from walking, running, or standing for long periods can lead to small tears in the tissue. Wearing unsupportive shoes, having flat feet or high arches, and tight calf muscles can also increase the risk. Pain is usually worse with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a long time. Left untreated, it can become a long-lasting issue that affects daily movement. If you are feeling sharp or aching pain under your heel, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Shellpoint, and Naples, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.